Jess Besca

Background

About Jess Besca

2024 Magna Cum Laude graduate of Kenyon College with a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Philosophy, drawn to the intersection of Psychology and the Law. My work focuses on using social psychology and scientific research to improve and inform how systems respond to trauma, bias, and vulnerability. I have worked on research related to jury decision-making, child maltreatment, and the intersection of race, the criminal justice system, and intimate partner violence. Outside academia, I’ve provided direct support as a child advocate and certified peer sexual assault advocate, and authored public op-eds translating research into action on child maltreatment and legal reform. I'm especially commited to culturally responsive, survivor-centered frameworks in advocacy and support work, and aspire to become a licensed Psychologist working at the intersection of clinical practice, research, and policy. Currently based in NYC.